How to lower emission in logistics – 5 concrete actions

Lowering emissions in logistics does not have to be complex or disruptive. For most companies, meaningful progress can be achieved by making a few practical choices about transport modes, partners, and infrastructure. Below are five concrete steps that help companies reduce logistics-related emissions while maintaining efficiency.

Table of content

1. Seamless ways to shift cargo transport from road to rail
2. How to choose the right logistics partner for your business.
3. What kind of certifications to look for when choosing a logistics partner.
4. What to think about when looking for logistic services with flexible capacity
5. The importance of modern facilities and equipment, and fair terms for workers

1. Shift cargo transport from road to rail

One of the most effective ways to reduce emissions in logistics is to prioritize rail transport for medium- and long-distance flows and integrate it in the supply chain. Rail freight generates significantly lower emissions than road, sea and air freight, especially when moving large or predictable volumes.

Rather than treating rail as a special alternative, companies increasingly use it as the default option and build their logistics planning around it. Even partial shifts from road to rail can result in immediate and measurable emissions reductions.

Logistics providers with rail at the core of their service offering, such as Nurminen Logistics, make this transition easier by offering established rail corridors and integrated rail-based solutions with pickup and last-mile delivery.

How to shift from road transport to rail freight:

• Identify transport flows suitable for rail based on distance and frequency.
• Plan transport around fixed rail schedules to benefit from predictable transit times.
• Use rail for the main haul and road only where needed for pickup and last-mile.
• Find a partner that offers part-load (LCL) rail solutions to handle flexible volumes.
• Work with rail-focused logistics providers that offer end-to-end solutions.

2. Choosing the right logistics partner

Emissions reductions in logistics depend heavily on the choices and capabilities of the logistics partner a company chooses. A responsible partner does not simply execute shipments but actively supports lower-emission transport decisions through planning, modes, and network design.

Sustainability should be embedded in everyday operations, not added as a separate service that brings extra costs for the customer. Companies like Nurminen Logistics illustrate how rail-focused logistics models naturally support lower emissions while maintaining reliability and efficiency.

How to find a sustainable logistics partner:

• Ask how sustainability is embedded in day-to-day logistics operations.
• Choose partners that actively prioritise low-emission transport modes.
• Build long-term logistics partnerships instead of relying on transactional buying.
• Look for proven operational commitment to sustainability, not just policies or target.

3. Check for correct certifications

Sustainability claims are increasingly common in logistics, which makes third-party certifications a useful reference point. Independent assessments help verify that sustainability is embedded into everyday operations rather than addressed through isolated initiatives.

Well-established logistics providers often hold recognized certifications such as EcoVadis and Fair Transport, which assess environmental performance, ethics, labor practices, and responsible procurement. For example, Nurminen Logistics' subsidiary in Sweden, Essinge Rail, holds an EcoVadis Platinum rating, the highest level awarded, placing the company among the top 1% of assessed companies globally.

Recognized certificates to look for:

• EcoVadis.
• Fair Transport.
• ISO 14001 and ISO 9001.
• Authorized Economic Operator (AEO).
• Safety & Quality Assessment for Sustainability (SQAS).

4. Logistic services with flexible capacity

Seasonality and demand fluctuations are a reality in most supply chains. When logistics capacity and warehousing cannot adjust accordingly, companies often fall back on inefficient routing, temporary storage, or high-emission transport modes to keep operations running.

Logistics partners that combine transport flexibility with scalable warehousing are better equipped to support stable, low-emission supply chains throughout the year. This includes the ability to increase or reduce transport volumes, adjust storage capacity, and adapt flows without forcing last-minute decisions.

Nurminen Logistics supports flexible transport volumes and warehousing solutions, allowing customers to manage seasonal peaks and demand changes while maintaining predictable and sustainable logistics setups.

How to ensure flexible logistics solution:

• Ask how logistics partners manage seasonal demand and volume changes.
• Ensure both transport capacity and warehousing can scale up or down.
• Avoid fixed setups that force inefficient solutions during peak periods.
• Prioritize partners that integrate transport and storage planning.

5. Modern facilities and fair terms

The sustainability and reliability of logistics operations are strongly influenced by the quality of facilities, equipment, and people behind them. Modern terminals, well-maintained handling equipment, and efficient operations reduce unnecessary emissions while improving safety and operational flow.

Equally important is having teams with the right expertise. Experienced logistics professionals understand how to design transport and warehousing solutions that balance efficiency, sustainability, and compliance. Clear and well-structured terms and conditions further support predictable operations and long-term partnerships.

Logistics providers that invest in modern facilities, utilize green energy where possible, and maintain strong in-house expertise set a solid foundation for low-emission logistics. That’s how Nurminen Logistics operates – with modern terminals, sustainable and energy-efficient equipment, and experienced teams with industry-leading operating terms, supporting reliable and responsible logistics solutions.

How to ensure efficient logistic operations:

• Evaluate the quality and performance of terminals, equipment, and energy sources.
• Set modern, energy-efficient facilities as a baseline requirement when selecting partners.
• Confirm proven operational expertise in rail and multimodal logistics, end-to-end.
• Review working conditions, staffing stability, and service models to ensure service quality

By following these principles, you can ensure your company chooses a responsible logistics partner that cares about both your business and the environment. This creates a strong foundation for a long-term partnership, resilient supply chains, and sustainable business success. Contact our logistic experts to learn about how Nurminen Logistics can support your logistics strategy with efficient, low-emission, and reliable transport solutions.